Entry level mills

Upstatewoodchuc · April 21, 2021, 10:28:42 AM

Hello again guys and gals, im interested in what's out there for entry mills. A couple years ago I was heavily into chainsaw milling which was okay for slabbing and beams, but not practical for mass lumber production. Now all the people who knew me locally for the chainsaw milling have been asking for dimensional lumber and im in the midst of putting a timber frame back up so the need for a bandmill has presented itself. I've been looking at the woodland hm126 and hm130 both with 14hp motor and bed extensions, price seems fair for what you get. Is anyone here using one of these? Also what else is comparable price and feature wise? Thanks, Pat.

btulloh · April 21, 2021, 07:57:49 PM

I've had a HM126 for 4 years and been pleased with it and the support from the company. There have been some nice improvements since I bought mine. The 14hp was not an option back then, but more hp is better. The hm130 is a step up and worth the extra money if it fits your budget. Get at least one track extension because you'll want that and shipping wll be cheaper if bought with the mill. The shipping charge for the mill was very reasonable and no problems with the carrier.

Most everyone is happy with their mill no matter the brand. Seems like most of the companies have good reputations and generally you get good value whether it's an entry level mill or a high end full hydraulic mill.

These days all the lead times on mills are quite long, so you'll have a bit of waiting ahead. Just the nature of things right now.

Good luck with whatever you choose and enjoy your soon-to-be sawdust addiction.

PS: welcome to the Forestry Forum! Oops - I see your not all that new, so welcome back! :D

Nebraska · April 21, 2021, 11:32:47 PM

EZ Boardwalk, take a look.

bit of a waiting list right now but I have been very satisfied.

Roundhouse · April 22, 2021, 01:38:49 AM

I've had a HM130 with one track extension for 5 years now and it's been perfect for my needs. I don't put a ton of hours on it per year. I continue to refine my setup for efficiency (roof, overhead winch, log deck) but the mill has been reliable for steady small-scale production.

Plenty more photos showing my setup in my gallery, and a thread detailing my build.

steveh2112 · April 22, 2021, 11:05:43 AM

did you check delivery times? i called the woodmizer dealer and was told something like 4 months lead time

Screwbolts · April 22, 2021, 01:05:31 PM

Good afternoon, If you are looking for good solid entry level Bandmills and are in upstate NY. I would take a ride to Barneveld the home of Hud-Son Forestry Products, they have many models to choose from and are American made.

Wow, my first post! been lurking for years.

Laus Deo
Ken
Central NY

tiogajoe · April 22, 2021, 03:35:19 PM

Quote from: Nebraska on April 21, 2021, 11:32:47 PM
EZ Boardwalk, take a look. bit of a waiting list right now but I have been very satisfied.

x2. I have an EZ Jr. with the 5 foot extension. Very happy with it.

justallan1 · April 22, 2021, 06:27:51 PM

X3 for the EZ Boardwalk Jr.
Mine is my second mill and I really like it.
It's made of plenty of solid steel and will take a beating for sure.
The company is run by a great guy that is very easy to work with.
On their site they recommend Timberwolf blades, but I use Kasco and they work just fine, plus they're about $10 cheaper.

Upstatewoodchuc · April 23, 2021, 08:25:12 AM

Thanks for all the replies! Woodland does indeed have a wait until end of summer, not sure about EZ. The EZ costs significantly more, but does have a little more room, I think 12 foot 2 it said and that may negate some of the costs of extensions on the woodland, also build quality looks slightly better and the portable option is cheaper on the EZ...

Major_in_MS · April 23, 2021, 09:00:46 AM

Quote from: steveh2112 on April 22, 2021, 11:05:43 AMdid you check delivery times? i called the woodmizer dealer and was told something like 4 months lead time

I ordered a LT15wide two days ago and was told the expected delivery date will be March 2022. They told me the small one, the LX25 only has a 6 month lead time, but I wanted the big one. I thought about ordering both of them, and then selling the small one when the big one comes in. Hmmm, still thinking about that actually.